The remaining members said in a statement they are "very proud" to have worked with Deal.

Black Francis, Joey Santiago and David Lovering also said they will always consider her a member of the group.

The Pixies released their debut in 1988. Their rock hits include Monkey Gone To Heaven, Here Comes Your Man and Letter To Memphis.

They disbanded in the early 1990s and reunited in 2004. Deal was also a part of the band The Breeders, which she formed and worked as lead singer and guitarist.

The Pixies' last tour was in 2011. Their last single was 2004's Bam Thwok.

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